Time sure does ZOOM by when you’re busy planning parties and we’ve had some biggies this year already!  Hard to believe it’s time for Ball on The Square, one of the most prestigious non-profit gala events in Philadelphia. As there is always much to do for this spectacular evening, our design team has already begun the installation of tents, air-conditioning, staging, sound and lighting. But instead of focusing on the long hours and detailed production in progress, let’s take a quick look at last year’s glamorous Ball on The Square for inspiration. {Photos: Marie Labbancz}

For almost a quarter of a decade, the Ball on The Square has been the only event permitted to take over Rittenhouse Square Park with tents, flooring, staging, air-conditioning units, restroom trailers and security vehicles. Perhaps that’s why it’s such a sought-after ticket as it’s truly a unique event experience in Philadelphia.  It’s certainly a pleasure to design each and every year, as the committee has always encouraged creativity and freedom in the design concept.  An event designer’s dream project!

Last year’s gala was all about glamour, sizzle and sparkle! EventQuip did their usual magic by installing tents, walkways, staging and a dance floor that gave us the the framework within which to layer pewter, silver, crystal and lucite. In the entrance tent, tightly composed floral arrangements of white hydrangea, lilies, gerber daisies, roses and peonies made a statement on Pewter Taffeta linens. Guests dressed in black tie and evening gowns enjoyed cocktails on low and high cocktail tables covered in Frosted Gray Satin linens.

Stephen Starr Events designed another fabulous menu for the event and we can only imagine what’s in store for Thursday night! Clever food combinations paired with sexy culinary presentations really wow the guests year after year.

At first, as the guests made their way into the ballroom tent, the entire room was drenched in rich blue lighting. Evantine’s Brian Kappra collaborated with Eventions Productions on the entire lighting plan for the gala, and as the evening progressed, the lighting in the tent changed from soft pale blue, to textured lavender and deep rich magenta. Lush purple, magenta and lavender flowers were arranged in crystal and silver vases on round dinner tables dressed in rich Silver Embroidered tablecloths. Neatly folded Silver satin napkins, calligraphed square menu cards, hand-blown plum glassware and stylish clear lucite chairs completed the table settings.

A mixture of low and high floral centerpieces were created in several traditional styles and included blooms such as hydrangea, peonies, mini calla lilies, French stocks tulips, orchids and lilac. As you can imagine, the floral arrangements were not only stunning to look at but deliciously fragrant as well. When producing a private event in a public park, we work hard to remember the little gracious elements that enforce the big picture. All the senses come into play at all times! It’s always such a pleasure to orchestrate this fabulous event with the Friends committee and we look forward to Thursday’s celebration!